Culinary Manager

Taste Buds Kitchen is a unique and innovative culinary entertainment company that has captivated audiences across the country with its engaging and educational cooking experiences. This company specializes in creating fun, hands-on cooking classes and events for children, families, and adults within a beautifully designed, state-of-the-art Kitchen Studio. The company offers a wide range of programs including cooking camps, birthday parties, corporate team-building events, and special occasion gatherings such as date nights, bachelorette parties, and showers. By blending entertainment with education, Taste Buds Kitchen has established a vibrant community centered around food, learning, and memorable moments.

The role of General Manager & Lead Culinary Instructor at Taste Buds Kitchen Bellevue is a distinctive position that requires a passionate individual who enjoys entertaining, teaching, and creating exceptional guest experiences. This is not your typical restaurant job but a dynamic role that involves leading diverse culinary events and classes for children as young as two years old up to adults. The General Manager & Lead Culinary Instructor will be responsible for launching and managing the new Bellevue Kitchen Studio, overseeing day-to-day operations, instructing cooking classes, and fostering a positive and engaged team environment. This individual plays a critical leadership role in shaping the culture, systems, and guest experience from the outset, contributing to both business growth and community impact.

This position demands creativity and adaptability, as the workday may range from hosting children’s cooking camps to facilitating corporate events and intimate culinary celebrations. The General Manager & Lead Culinary Instructor spends 50 to 75 percent of their time teaching and engaging with guests, gradually transitioning to a more managerial focus as the team grows. Responsibilities include recruiting, training, and scheduling staff, maintaining brand and cleanliness standards, and ensuring the operational efficiency of the studio. The role requires open availability, including nights and weekends, to accommodate the company’s seven-day event schedule.

The successful candidate will bring strong leadership skills, enthusiasm for food and community-building, and a natural ability to entertain and engage diverse audiences. Culinary expertise is valuable but not mandatory; personality, hospitality skills, and an eagerness to teach and inspire are paramount. Additional benefits include competitive hourly compensation ranging from $29 to $31, paid time off, quarterly performance bonuses, 401(k) eligibility, health and wellness stipends, and exclusive employee perks like complimentary classes and discounts. This position offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering team and shape the future of Taste Buds Kitchen Bellevue from its inception.